The humble dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

The humble dandelion, Taraxacum officinale, uprooted by gardeners, is one of the plants most commonly used by Herbalists!

Taraxacum officinale (dandelion)

Research supports the use of the leaves as a diuretic. This effect has been used to reduce high blood pressure, but, whereas conventional diuretics can cause potassium loss, with associated side effects, this does not occur with dandelion as the leaves are rich in this mineral.

The root has been used by Herbalists throughout history as a digestive aid, to help constipation and to improve some joint and skin conditions. Studies increasingly support this use.

Dandelion is rich in vitamins A, B, C, D and minerals, including potassium, iron, copper, calcium and zinc

Taraxacum officinale (dandelion)

"Drugs tend to destroy tissue and do not cure; herbs strengthen tissue and do cure" (Mrs C.F. Leyel)!

An interesting quotation, taken from Mrs C.F. Leyel, founder the Society of Herbalists (now called the Herb Society) and Fellow of the Royal Institution of Great Britain.

Green Medicine by Mrs C.F. Leyel (1952)

Although this quotation was published in "Green Medicine", written in 1952, most modern day herbalists would agree that herbs provide a plentiful supply of bioavailable vitamins and minerals, so facilitating tissue repair.

Nettle (Urtica dioica) is an example of this, being rich in many vitamins and minerals, including iron. However, it is also rich in vitamin C, which improves the absorption of the iron. The stomach upsets which can accompany iron tablets are much less likely with the iron in plants.

Similarly, dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has a history of use as a diuretic. Whereas pharmaceutical diuretics (water tablets) can deplete the body of essential potassium, dandelion leaves are rich in potassium, so this potential problem is unlikely.